The Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) is excited to announce its highly anticipated Business and Investment Conference scheduled for October 8 2024, and October 9, 2024, under the theme “Financing for Success: Where Passion, Prosperity, and People Align.”
This premier event venued at the Pegasus International Hotel, Georgetown, aims to unite a diverse array of stakeholders, including influential business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and industry experts, to engage in transformative discussions and foster opportunities that will shape the future of investment in the Caribbean.
Event OverviewAs the Caribbean continues to evolve into a dynamic economic landscape, this conference seeks to address critical issues affecting business growth and investment. By aligning passion with prosperity, the JSE aims to cultivate an environment where innovative ideas can flourish, driving sustainable economic development across the region.
The event will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, each bringing unique insights and expertise to the table:Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, will open the conference with an overview that emphasises the importance of aligning passion with financial success. Her vision is to inspire participants to explore how strategic investments can be harnessed for both personal and community growth.
Mr. Steven Whittingham, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy Financial Group and Chairman of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, will delve into “The Power of People Aligned with Passion: The Mechanism to Achieve Prosperity.” He will discuss the integral role that human capital plays in driving business success and how aligning goals with the workforce’s passion can enhance productivity and innovation.
Mr. Angus Young, Chief Executive Officer of NCB Capital Markets Limited, will address the essential role of broker-dealers as conduits for businesses seeking to access capital for growth and expansion. His insights will highlight effective strategies for navigating the complex landscape of capital markets.
Mr. Gregory Fisher, Managing Director of Jefferies Private Wealth Management, will present “The Global Outlook: Positioning the Caribbean for Growth.” This session will provide valuable insights into global economic trends and their implications for Caribbean economies, empowering attendees to make informed investment decisions.
Hon. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance in the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, will discuss budgeting strategies as a foundational pillar for success, both for individuals and nations. His session will underscore the significance of sound financial planning in driving sustainable development.
Key Themes and Panel DiscussionsThe conference will continue with a series of themed sessions designed to delve deeper into specific sectors and investment opportunities.Agenda Highlights includes; Democratising the Benefits of the Country’s Natural Resources – This session, led by Hon. Vickram Bharrat, Minister of Natural Resources in Guyana, will explore strategies for ensuring that the wealth generated from natural resources benefits all citizens and promotes inclusive growth.
Panel Discussion: Simplifying Alternative Investments & Increasing Access to Capital – Featuring industry leaders such as Ms. Stacy-Ann Tait, Senior Vice President of Investments at NCB Capital Markets Limited, and Mr. Dwight Jackson, AVP of Capital Markets at VM Wealth Management Limited, this discussion will focus on demystifying alternative investment avenues and enhancing access to capital for businesses of all sizes.
Regional Growth Led By People, Place, and Passion – The Tourism Product – Hon. Oneidge Walrond, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce in Guyana, will highlight how tourism can be a catalyst for economic growth in the region, discussing initiatives to enhance the tourism product while preserving cultural heritage.
Smooth Leadership Transition Ideal for Business Continuity – Mr. Shawn Gurcharran, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), will address the importance of effective leadership transitions in ensuring business continuity and long-term success.
Panel Discussion: Championing and Financing Education – This crucial discussion will feature Hon. Priya Manickchand, Minister of Education in Guyana, along with Mr. Ramsay Ali, President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association. They will explore innovative financing solutions for education and the role of education in fostering an entrepreneurial spirit.
Panel Discussion: The Private Sector’s Role in Promoting Sustainable Wealth Creation and Prosperity – Key industry figures, including Mr. Kester Hutson, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Cecil Foster, Managing Director of FosRich Group of Companies, will discuss how the private sector can drive sustainable economic growth through strategic investments and partnerships.
Emerging Markets: When to Use Debt Financing Versus Equity – Mr. John Tonelli, Global Head of Debt Capital Markets at Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., will provide insights into financing strategies suitable for emerging markets, empowering participants to make strategic financial decisions.8. Panel Discussion: Fast Tracking Development – This concluding session will feature experts including Mr. Dereck Rajack, Chief Executive Officer of Caribbean Information and Credit Rating Services (CariCRIS), and representatives from various stock exchanges. They will discuss how mobilising capital through stock exchanges can accelerate business growth and contribute to national development.
The Jamaica Stock Exchange Business and Investment Conference is an exceptional opportunity for high-end businesses and entrepreneurs to network with influential industry leaders, gain insights into investment strategies, and explore new avenues for collaboration.
Participants will leave equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving financial landscape and capitalise on emerging opportunities.As such, we invite all interested stakeholders to join us in this crucial dialogue aimed at fostering economic growth and prosperity throughout the Caribbean.
